Branched Oak Observatory

Cars 'n' Stars and Tacos Too! 2025
2025-05-17 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Rev up your engines, folks! It’s time for a cosmic collision of Cars, Stars, and Tacos – the ultimate trio of awesome! And guess what? You’re the VIP guest on this cosmic road trip.
Hop on board with your crew and join us on Saturday, May 17th for the most epic event of the season:
Cars ‘n’ Stars and Tacos Too! We’re talking mind-blowing vehicles at the car show, tantalizing food flavors courtesy of TBA, finger-lickin’ BBQ from TBA, and ice-cold refreshments from TBA.
But wait, there’s more! Dive into safe solar-viewing, snag some sweet raffle prizes, and gaze at the stars during an evening star party back at Branched Oak Observatory.
This CAR SHOW part of this event is FREE, with optional food and raffle tickets to spice things up. Get those calendars marked because this is one ride you won’t want to miss!
The Evening STAR SHOW is $10 for Adults, and $5 for Kids 5 to 15.
Got a killer set of wheels you want to flaunt? Be a part of the action as a car show participant! No matter the make, model, or age, if your ride’s got that ‘wow’ factor, we want YOU at Cars ‘n’ Stars and Tacos Too! And who knows, if your road-wonder strikes the spectator’s fancy, you might win a People’s Choice Award (complete with a cash prize).
For more information, click
Locations For the Event:
Car Show
Speedway Motors
340 Victory Ln, Lincoln, NE 68528
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (check-in begins at 10 AM for participants)
View Map
Star Show
Branched Oak Observatory
14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE 68428
8:00 PM – 11 PM. $10 for Adults, $5 for Kids.
View Map
Additional BOO Volunteers are encouraged to join if available.
Confirmed volunteers to Speedway Motors:
Confirmed volunteers to the BOO:
Volunteers: please check back here (as well as your messages) for event confirmation, cancelation, or postponement announcements.

Science Olympiad Star Party - Private Event
2025-05-22 19:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
The 2025 Science Olympiad National Tournament will feature a Star Party at Branched Oak Observatory in Raymond, NE, on May 22nd, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM CDT. This event is a chance to observe the night sky through telescopes, learn about astronomy, and participate in fun activities. The event is free.

Volunteers

Brett Boller

Hailey Anderson

Michael Sibbernsen

Kendra Sibbernsen

Matthew Sibbernsen

Lucas Sibbernsen

Eric Balcolm

Brad Severa

John Rienert

TJ Aroyyo

Jim Kvasnicka

James Quanch

Jason Oflarety

Doug Buhrman – BRSC

Erik Hubl

Caleum Hubl

Matt Anderson

Tracy Anderson

Brian Watson

Val Watson

Threasa Gunderson

Bob Finke

Carol Wells

Scott Byers

Doug Buhrman – BRSC

paul prarie

David Hattan

Issac Erhart

Ethan cotter

Summer Open Hours 6PM-11PM Thursday, Friday & Saturday
2025-05-29 18:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Summer Hours at Branched Oak Observatory!
Every Friday and Saturday night between May 30th and August 17th enjoy beautiful views of the night sky through our many telescopes at the observatory.
We will be open between 6PM – 11PM rain or shine (see note below). Evening viewing will be weather dependent.
Summer Admission: Only $5 per person. Children (5-15) AND Adults.
Special Note:

Please double-check the calendar AND/OR our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/branchedoakobservatory/ for special announcements regarding cancelations for Special Events or extreme weather.

Metropolitan Community College Class - Astronomy In a Nutshell - Paid Registration Required
2025-06-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Class: Astronomy in a Nutshell- The Summer Skies
Instructor: Michael Sibbernsen
Location: Metropolitan Community College – North Express
SCC Registration: TBA
Description:
Explore the wonders of the Universe in this beginner-friendly astronomy class! Dive into the star patterns of the Summer Sky and the hidden treasures found within, while also gaining a solid understanding of the Milky Way, various deep-space objects, and different telescopes. Learn to identify key stars, planets, and more. Weather permitting, head outside to enjoy an amazing stargazing experience through our observatory telescopes. Perfect for curious beginners or lifelong learners, this course is your gateway to the cosmos!
Course Outline and Objectives:
Through multiple presentations (two indoor and one outdoor-weather permitting) in a single evening, students will be provided a veritable crash-course in astronomy. Topics include:
Astronomy in a Nutshell

Structure of the Milky Way and Other Galaxies
Astronomical Scales and Units
Stars and Nebulae
Understanding the Design and Function of Telescopes
Introduction to the Celestial Sphere
Further Resources- Books, Clubs, and Observatories

Inside the Summer Skies

Finding Constellations and Asterisms
Locating and Understanding Galaxies, Nebulae, and Star Clusters

Mini Star Party

Outside Orientation of the Night Sky
Observation of Many Deep-Space Objects Through Smart Telescopes

Star charts, astronomy calendars, notepads, and other space goodies (provided by the NASA Nebraska Space Grant) will be provided to the students.
[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

NASA Night at the BOO - Featuring Brandon Lloyd
2025-06-13 18:30 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
As a special extension of the “NASA at the College World Series” event taking place in Omaha at the Kiewit Luminarium RiverFront, Branched Oak Observatory is PROUD to welcome NASA Flight Director Brandon Lloyd!
Join us for a unique opportunity to meet a current flight director of NASA and to learn about the space administration’s current research and space missions. After the special program, stay the rest of the evening and enjoy our astronomy programming and observing opportunities. This event is FREE and open to the public and media outlets.
Schedule of events:
6:00 p.m. – Doors Open at Branched Oak Observatory
6:30 p.m. – Meet the NASA Flight Director, Brandon Lloyd
6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Q&A with moderator asking questions that have been shared (BY YOU) and prepared in advance.
7:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Open Q&A with the audience
7:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Photo Ops with the Flight Director and NASA giveaways
9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. “Inside the Summer Skies” Presentation with Professor Sibbernsen
9:00 p.m. to 11:00p.m. Explore the night sky through our many telescopes at Branched Oak Observatory (Weather Permitting)

First Responders Appreciation Day – A Night Under the Stars to Honor Our Heroes
2025-06-15 17:00 - 23:59 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Branched Oak Observatory Hosts First Responders Appreciation Day – A Night Under the Stars to Honor Our Heroes

On Sunday, June 15th, from 5 PM to midnight, Branched Oak Observatory will proudly host its First Responders Appreciation Day—an evening dedicated to honoring the courageous individuals who serve our communities and the families who support them.

This special night is a heartfelt “thank you” to the men and women of Lincoln Fire and Rescue, Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, UNL Police, and other local departments across southeast Nebraska.

Whether you are active or retired—as a firefighter, EMT, paramedic, dispatcher, or law enforcement officer—you and your family are invited to join us for an unforgettable celebration under the stars. This event is also for the community that they serve.

Event Highlights Include:
Live music by The Last Minute Band
Special appearances by the 501st Legion Star Wars re-enactment group

Delicious eats from a local food truck

Full access to our array of telescopes, including our 16″ and 11″ catadioptrics, a 6″ APO refractor, and the amazing 12″ RC in the Miller Astrophotography Research Center.

Daytime activities: safe solar viewing, hands-on “make-and-take” projects for kids, and interactive astronomy presentations for all ages

Don’t forget to meet “Mike the Meteorite”, our real-life celestial traveler—you can hold a piece of space in your hands!

Admission Details:
Free for all first responders (active duty or retired). $5 per family member / general public, age 5 and up.

“This is more than just a night of appreciation—it’s a celebration of service, sacrifice, and community,” says Matt Anderson, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Branched Oak Observatory. “It’s our turn to serve those who serve us.”

Branched Oak Observatory invites the entire community to come out, connect, and say: “We see you. We thank you.”

Location:
Branched Oak Observatory
14300 NW 98th St, Raymond, NE 68428

Date & Time:
Sunday, June 15th
5:00 PM – 12:00 Midnight

For questions or group inquiries, email events@branchedoakobservatory.com or call 402-480-5515.
Visit www.branchedoakobservatory.com for event updates.

Silent Book Club
2025-06-20 19:30 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Open to the General Public – FREE ADMISSION

Join us for another session of our popular Silent Book Club!

Bring your book (or ebook or audiobook w/earbuds) and read quietly for an hour. Or grab a book from our wonderful astronomy library! No pressure, no book assignments, no book report…a stress-free opportunity to read under the evening sky. We will have coffee and water on hand, but feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks. You are also encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and pillow.

After our silent reading time and optional discussion, our staff will take you on a tour of the facility and once dark, observe beautiful objects in the night sky through our various telescopes. Even if the skies are cloudy, you can enjoy our exhibits and astronomy videos in the Multipurpose Center. Dress warm for the outside observing.

7:30 – 8:00 pm – Gather, chat, grab a pastry, pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea (we’re ok with BYOB too!)
8:00 – 9:00 pm – Quiet reading of your choice
9:00 – 9:30 pm – Discuss (or not) as the spirit moves you
9:30 – 11:00 pm – Enjoy a tour of the observatory, and weather permitting, view night sky objects with our collection of telescopes

There is no cost for this event. Donations to the observatory are encouraged and appreciated.

Please note, our Silent Book Club events can only offer limited observing opportunities. Join us for our monthly public “Star Party” events for more opportunities through more telescopes.

Confirmed Volunteers: Carol Wells
[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Closed for Private Event - No Open Summer Hours
2025-06-21, 2025-06-26, 2025-07-11 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
No Open Summer Hours Tonight
Branched Oak Observatory will be CLOSED to the general public this evening. We apologize for the inconvenience and hope that you will be able to join us on some other date this Summer or in the near future.

Spina Bifidia Association of Nebraska
2025-06-21 18:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States

Outreach to Belmont Community Center
2025-06-23 09:30 - 11:30 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Branched Oak Observatory volunteers will visit Belmont Community Center (3335 N 12th St. Lincoln, NE 68521) to deliver multiple astronomy programs to 60+ K-5th grade students. The participants will be broken into two groups, so enough volunteers will be needed to run simultaneous programing.
Suggested programming includes…
• Safe solar viewing outside if the weather allows. If it is cloudy out, then additional indoor programming would be completed.
• A simple “What’s Up” program about the evenings constellations.
• A Meteorite program.
• Make a planisphere (a moving star map) [Note to programming- Make sure you have enough print-outs prior to travel. Pack blue box crafting kits]
• Make a Sundial. [Note to programming- Make sure you have enough print-outs prior to travel. ]
• Solar System in Your Pocket.
Tessie Schroeder (they/them/theirs) is the School-Age Programs Director
Volunteers: Carol Wells (Lead). Matt Anderson. 4 more volunteers needed. Experience with h-alpha solar scopes and white-light solar scopes is needed.

Outreach to present at Bright Lights Hogwarts Day Camp
2025-06-24 14:00 - 15:00 | Southwest Highschool
Michael to present at 2PM on June 24th at Lincoln Southwest High School for Bright Lights Hogwarts Day Camp. He will present “Inside the Summer Skies” program but heavy on the mythologies of the constellations to be in theme with the camp. He will also take meteorites to show and take a solar scope for viewing if clear.
Note to Michael: Take extra HDMI cables with your presentation equipment.

OLLI Visit #5 - Private Visit
2025-06-26 20:30 - 22:30 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Event Category – Private Event
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) members and other guests will be visiting Branched Oak Observatory (BOO) for an unforgettable astronomical experience. They will meet experienced professional and amateur astronomers, deepen their understanding of astronomy, and see for themselves the deep-space wonders of the night sky.

Confirmed Volunteers for the event:
Michael Sibbernsen

Closed for Private Event - No Open Summer Hours
2025-06-27 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States

Wine and Stargazing with James Arthur Vineyards - Paid Registration Required
2025-06-27 21:00 - 23:00, 2025-08-29 21:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Wine and Stargazing with James Arthur Vineyards
Spend the evening at Branched Oak Observatory stargazing while sipping your favorite JAV wine. Tickets are $35/person (plus gratuity and fees) and include wine, appetizers, observatory admission. Tickets must be purchased IN ADVANCE. Tickets will NOT be sold at the observatory.
Registration Link: TBA

Climate Up Close Public Lecture and Star Party
2025-06-28 20:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Talk with a climate scientist face-to-face.
Where is the boundary of climate knowledge?
How has climate change affected extreme weather?
What does the future hold?
Saturday, June 28th at 8pm. Followed by stargazing until 11pm.
FREE ADMISSION
Climate Up Close is a group of climate scientists committed to making the essentials of climate science accessible to a broad audience. We equip Americans to reach their own judgments about climate science by seeing the evidence for themselves and putting their questions directly to climate scientists. Climate Up Close is non- partisan and non-prescriptive. Our scientists volunteer their time, our events are free and open to the public, and our tours are supported by small donations. Our current scientists are affiliated with Cornell University, Harvard University, NOAA, and Princeton University.
After the live program, there will be a Q&A followed by astronomical observing until 11PM.
We have LIMITED space in our multipurpose center, so we are asking participants to register for the program at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/ClimateUpCloseAtBOO

Other program locations if you are unable to make it out to Branched Oak Observatory.

Saint Paul United Methodist Church in Lincoln on 6/27 @ 7pm

Unitarian Church of Lincoln on 6/28 @ 10:30am

Pioneers Park Nature Center on 6/28 @ 1:30pm

Astronomical Grace
2025-07-11 19:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States

Southeast Community College Class - Astronomy In a Nutshell - Paid Registration Required
2025-07-16 20:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Waiting for class confirmation
Class: Astronomy in a Nutshell- The Summer Skies
Instructor: Michael Sibbernsen
Location: Branched Oak Observatory. 14300 NW 98th St, Raymond, NE 68428
SCC Registration: TBA
Description:
Explore the wonders of the Universe in this beginner-friendly astronomy class! Dive into the star patterns of the Summer Sky and the hidden treasures found within, while also gaining a solid understanding of the Milky Way, various deep-space objects, and different telescopes. Learn to identify key stars, planets, and more. Weather permitting, head outside to enjoy an amazing stargazing experience through our observatory telescopes. Perfect for curious beginners or lifelong learners, this course is your gateway to the cosmos!
Course Outline and Objectives:
Through multiple presentations (two indoor and one outdoor-weather permitting) in a single evening, students will be provided a veritable crash-course in astronomy. Topics include:
Astronomy in a Nutshell

Structure of the Milky Way and Other Galaxies
Astronomical Scales and Units
Stars and Nebulae
Understanding the Design and Function of Telescopes
Introduction to the Celestial Sphere
Further Resources- Books, Clubs, and Observatories

Inside the Summer Skies

Finding Constellations and Asterisms
Locating and Understanding Galaxies, Nebulae, and Star Clusters

Mini Star Party

Outside Orientation of the Night Sky
Observation of Many Deep-Space Objects Through Observatory Telescopes

Star charts, astronomy calendars, notepads, and other space goodies (provided by the NASA Nebraska Space Grant) will be provided to the students.

Silent Book Club
2025-07-18 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-08-15 19:30 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Open to the General Public – FREE ADMISSION

Join us for another session of our popular Silent Book Club!

Bring your book (or ebook or audiobook w/earbuds) and read quietly for an hour. Or grab a book from our wonderful astronomy library! No pressure, no book assignments, no book report…a stress-free opportunity to read under the evening sky. We will have coffee and water on hand, but feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks. You are also encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket and pillow.

After our silent reading time and optional discussion, our staff will take you on a tour of the facility and once dark, observe beautiful objects in the night sky through our various telescopes. Even if the skies are cloudy, you can enjoy our exhibits and astronomy videos in the Multipurpose Center. Dress warm for the outside observing.

7:30 – 8:00 pm – Gather, chat, grab a pastry, pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea (we’re ok with BYOB too!)
8:00 – 9:00 pm – Quiet reading of your choice
9:00 – 9:30 pm – Discuss (or not) as the spirit moves you
9:30 – 11:00 pm – Enjoy a tour of the observatory, and weather permitting, view night sky objects with our collection of telescopes

There is no cost for this event. Donations to the observatory are encouraged and appreciated.

Please note, our Silent Book Club events can only offer limited observing opportunities. Join us for our monthly public “Star Party” events for more opportunities through more telescopes.

Confirmed Volunteers: Carol Wells

The 32nd Annual Nebraska Star Party At Merritt Reservoir - Outreach
2025-07-20 - 2025-07-25 | Merritt Reservior, Merritt Reservoir SRA, Valentine, NE, 69201-1904, United States
Private Special Event – Nebraska Star Party
Members of Branched Oak Observatory will be attending the Nebraska Star Party in Merritt Reservoir to both enjoy the phenomenal skies and to help with programming.
If you would be interested in attending the Nebraska Star Party, please visit https://www.nebraskastarparty.org/ for additional information including event registration.
Confirmed BOO Attendees / Volunteers For the Event:
Michael Sibbernsen
Kendra Sibbernsen

Outreach to Home Depot South Lincoln
2025-08-02 08:30 - 12:30 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
While the Home Depot Crew has the kids build a space-themed wooden diorama (a 30-40min build), Branched Oak Observatory volunteers will entertain parents, waiting kids, and other bystanders with Solar Viewing, Meteorite talks, and sticker give-aways.
Matt Anderson is the lead for this outreach. You can contact Matt or Humza if you can help with this outreach.

Nature at Nightfall at Platte River State Park
2025-08-08 18:00 - 22:30 | Platte River State Park
Nature at Nightfall at Platte River State Park
(Branched Oak Observatory will be facilitating the Astronomy portion of this event).
Have you ever wondered how astronomers read the night sky or how researchers study nocturnal animals? Or maybe you want to know what is like to have incredible night vision like an owl!
Join us on August 8th, 2025 from 6-10:30PM at Platte River State Park to explore how fascinating nature can be from dusk to nightfall. We will have a wide array of activities going on throughout the evening so there is sure to be something for everyone!
Most activities will be located around the nature center/tennis courts/ball field area.
Below is a lineup for the evening:
Nature Center special hours- 6-8:30PM
Crawdad Creek- 6-8:30PM
Live Reptiles & Amphibians- 6-8:30PM
Guided Dusk to Nightfall Hikes- 7:30-8:30PM (Hiking groups will leave at 7:30 and 8)
Fire Making & Smores- 7-9PM
Moth Lighting (with UNL Extension)- 9-10:30PM
Bat Mist Netting (located at the stables)- 9-10:30PM
Astronomy- 9-10:30PM – Michael Sibbernsen will be giving a presentation in the Mallet Lodge at 9PM. Observing afterwards until 10:30. All volunteers will set-up telescope at the Owen Landing boat ramp OR in the green space to the NW of the Spray Park Building (south of Mallet). We will decide that night which.
The Walter Scott Jr. Lodge Restaurants’ Dinner Buffet will be open from 4-8pm
We hope to see you there!
**The event itself is free, however, a park entry fee/permit is required to enter Platte River State Park

From Earth to Eternity - A Nature Photography Seminar
2025-08-17 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-08-24 14:00 - 16:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Join Us for a Special Presentation with JRBStorm Photography

As part of our stunning summer exhibit From Earth to Eternity, Branched Oak Observatory is proud to host a special seminar with acclaimed photographers Jeremy Bower and Chantelli Fulst of JRBStorm Photography.
In this inspiring session, the duo will share their techniques for capturing dramatic weather and night sky imagery — from lightning-filled supercells to the tranquil beauty of the Milky Way.
Learn about camera settings, gear, composition tips, and how to safely chase the perfect shot. Don’t miss this behind-the-lens look at the passion and process behind the photographs lighting up our gallery!

This special seminar is FREE with regular Summer Admission to the Observatory ($5 per person). No need to register. Just come on out Sunday before 2PM.
After the program, we will explore the Sun through the observatory’s special solar telescopes (weather permitting).

Wine & Stargazing Rain-Date Observing Night
2025-09-05 21:00 - 23:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Wine & Stargazing Rain-Date Observing Night

We promised and the skies have answered… Fingers-crossed!

While our last Wine & Stargazing evening was clouded over, this Friday’s special private rain-date event promises clearer skies and cosmic wonders.
This time, it’s all about the stars. No wine or food will be served, but we’ll be raising our glasses to the heavens as we explore the night sky through a variety of telescopes.

Highlights of the night include:

• Stunning views of the bright near-full Moon• Dazzling star clusters and nebulae• Far-off galaxies shimmering across space• The ringed beauty of Saturn

Although this star party is specifically for registered guests of our last Wine & Stargazing event, those participants are welcome to bring extra family members to join in on the fun. There is no extra charge for this event. This evening promises breathtaking sights and an unforgettable experience under the stars!

BOO Volunteer Drive, Pizza Party and Training Session
2025-09-13 18:00 - 21:00 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
Do you have a love of the night sky? Are you interested in creating unique opportunities for your community?
We need YOU!
Regardless of your experience in astronomy, Branched Oak Observatory can certainly use your help! From operating telescopes and pointing out constellations during our Star Parties, to construction projects and groundskeeping between events, we are always looking for dynamic volunteers with diverse experiential backgrounds.
On Saturday, March 22nd, we invite you and any interested family members to join us for a special pizza party and orientation for prospective volunteers. You are under no obligation.
We can’t wait to meet and learn about YOU!
So we know how much pizza to order: Please send a quick note to education@branchedoakobservatory.com to let us know you will be coming.
Advanced Training later in the evening. After the regular Volunteer Drive and Pizza Party, (around 9 PM), we will be holding advanced training on some of our equipment and facilities for the more seasoned volunteers at Branched Oak Observatory.
Confirmed BOO Volunteers For the Evening:
Michael Sibbernsen
Additional BOO Volunteers are encouraged to join if available.
Volunteers: please check back here (as well as your messages) for event confirmation, cancelation, or postponement announcements.

OLLI Visit #6 - Private Visit
2025-09-16 19:30 - 21:30 | Branched Oak Observatory, 14300 NW 98th Street, Raymond, NE, 68428, United States
